Question 1

What is Thai Akha Kitchen?

Accepted Answer

Founded in 2015 by Akha descendant Chef Niti Muelaeku, we are the first school in Chiang Mai to blend classic Thai street food with indigenous Akha cuisine. Read our full story about us.

Question 2

What is the difference between Morning and Evening classes?

Accepted Answer

The Morning Class includes a 1-hour local market tour; the Evening Class skips the market for a relaxed, cooler dinner. Both teach the same 11 dishes.

Question 3

How many dishes will we cook?

Accepted Answer

You will master a complete 11-dish menu — appetizers, a hand-pounded curry paste, stir-fries, an Akha soup, and Mango Sticky Rice — eaten as you go. See them all in our recipes.

Question 4

What language are the classes taught in?

Accepted Answer

Classes are taught entirely in English by our professional local guides, and you will pick up plenty of Thai and Akha words along the way. Meet the team on our about page.

Question 5

What does 'Your Wok, Your Rules' mean? Do I have to share?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. Every student gets their own individual cooking station, wok, and stone mortar, so nothing is shared and your diet sets the rules. More in our classes overview.

Question 6

Can I bring someone who doesn't want to cook?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Non-cooking companions can join as Visitors to watch and taste, at a reduced rate. Just add them when you reserve on our booking page.

Question 7

Do you use electric blenders for curry paste?

Accepted Answer

Never. We pound every paste by hand in traditional stone mortars — it releases aromas no blender can match. Master the technique with us; see it in our recipes.

Question 8

I am vegan or vegetarian. Can I join?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Because you cook at your own individual station, there is zero cross-contamination, and we adapt every one of the 11 dishes perfectly. Read our dietary guide.

Question 9

I have severe food allergies (like peanuts or gluten). Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely safe. We handle severe allergies with creative premium substitutes — roasted pumpkin seeds for peanuts, gluten-free soy, and more — at your isolated station. Read our allergy-safe protocols.

Question 10

Do you cook with pork or beef?

Accepted Answer

No — our kitchen is strictly free of red meat and pork. We use fresh chicken, quality shrimp, tofu, and vegetables, and adapt fully for vegetarians. See the menu in our recipes.

Question 11

Will the food be too spicy for me?

Accepted Answer

You decide the heat. Because you pound your own chilies, you control the fire, choosing from five spice levels — from mild to the Akha Warrior. Find yours in our spice levels guide.

Question 12

Do you offer free hotel pickup?

Accepted Answer

Yes — complimentary pick-up and drop-off within a 5km radius of the Old City and Nimman. Check your hotel and times on the Free Pickup map.

Question 13

What if my hotel is outside the free pickup zone?

Accepted Answer

If you are staying outside the free zone, we have designated meeting points at easy-to-find landmarks where our crew will greet you. See them all on the Free Pickup map.

Question 14

Where is Thai Akha Kitchen located?

Accepted Answer

We are at 14/10 Rat Chiang Saen 2 Ko. Alley, Chiang Mai — a 5-minute walk from the South Gate of the Old City. Directions on our contact page.

Question 15

Do I need previous cooking experience?

Accepted Answer

None at all! Our professional Akha teachers guide you step by step, from holding the knife to firing the wok. Just bring your appetite. Browse what you will cook in our recipes.

Question 16

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel up to 48 hours before class for a full refund. Within 48 hours the fee is non-refundable, but rescheduling is possible. Manage it on our booking page.

Question 17

How can I contact Thai Akha Kitchen for a private group?

Accepted Answer

We warmly welcome travel agencies and private groups of up to 16 guests, and offer a dedicated B2B Partner Portal. Reach us through our contact page to arrange it.

Question 18

How can I pay for my booking? Is there a card fee?

Accepted Answer

You can book and pay securely online by credit card or PayPal on our booking page, with no hidden card fee, or pay cash on arrival. Bookings are 100% refundable up to 48 hours before.

Cooking Class FAQ Chiang Mai | Thai Akha Kitchen